Top 5 Questions Every Beginner Coin Collector Should Ask

Are you looking for a fun hobby? Coin collecting might be an undiscovered interest that you find enjoyable. Collecting coins is not only fun, but it also gives you a glimpse of history. Coins can date back to several decades or even centuries ago. You get to see different historical figures on the faces and even national icons such as the Maple leaf and the eagle when beginning a new coin collection.

As a beginner, you might not have enough knowledge about coin values or if it is a good idea to clean a dirty coin in a collection. Its okay to make mistakes as a rookie, but it is necessary to ask important questions to help build a quality collection.

Where do I store my coins?

To maintain the value of your coin collection, you need to store them properly. Specialized coin folders, sleeves, holders and other containers will protect your collection from the elements. Placing your coins in such containers will ensure the quality as well as value. The way you hold a coin may also damage its surface; always hold your coins on the edges and not on its face. The oil on your hands may transfer to the surface, damaging it over time.

How do I determine coin value?

Determining coin values varies across the vatain coins stand out because of their rarity, mistakes on them or limited mintage. These are generally more valued compared to other coins on the market. Having a coin appraised by a professional is the best way to determine the real value.

Where do I find the best coins for my collection?           

Shops such as Colonial Acres have an extensive inventory of coins that you can add to your collection; from ancient to commemorative and other types. Choose a store that has a good record with previous customers to ensure the quality of coins you purchase.

Can I clean my coins?

In some cases, it is better not to clean a dirty coin, especially if it is decades old. Some coins lose their value after cleaning, and may even deteriorate their surface even more. Some cleaning solutions contain chemicals that may erode a coin. Experienced collectors will know that you cleaned a coin because of its unnatural sheen and glimmer. The most cleaning you can do on a coin is soaking it in water to remove some of the dirt and dabbing it gently to dry.

What do I do with error coins?

                                           

Some of the rarest and most valuable coins are the ones with errors on it. If you find an error coin, it is best to keep it as it will increase the value of your coin collection.

Consider asking yourself these questions as you begin your new coin collection. You will be able to learn more about the collection process and make smart decisions as you add to your coin collection.

Different Kinds of Canadian Paper Money

Canada has a rich history as reflected in their coins and paper money. Knowing the difference between the two allows you to get a glimpse of Canadian history and culture.

Brief History of Canadian Money

The Canadian Dollar is one of the world’s oldest independent currencies. Introduced in 1853 to the North American colonies, this currency is still the basic unit of Canadian cash. Pegged to the British Pound Sterling originally and later to the Gold Standard, the Canadian Dollar is a “free floating currency” since 1929. The international marketplace and the different policies of the Bank of Canada determine its value.

Canadian Bills

Coins haven’t changed much over the decades, in some cases, close to a century. However, Canadian paper money has seen quite a few changes over the years. Here are some of their examples now.

One Dollar

The Loonie is Canada’s one dollar coin. There used to be a dollar bill but the mint phased it out in the 80s. The coin got its name because it displays a picture of a loon, which is the national bird of the country, on one side.

Five Dollars

The country’s smallest bill is blue and depicts a portrait of Canada’s prime minister Wilfrid Laurier (1841-1919). He is the first French-Canadian leader of the country. On the reverse side of this bill is a salute to Canadian winter sports.

Ten Dollars

This purple bill depicts a portrait of Sir John A. MacDonald (1815-1891), the country’s founder and first ever prime minister. Behind the picture is a salute to peacekeeping and the country’s armed forces.

Twenty Dollars

This paper money has an aged, green picture of Queen Elizabeth II (b. 1926), the country’s head of state. She was also on Canada’s $1 and $2 bills when they still existed. Behind the portrait is a montage of renowned aboriginal artwork by Indian sculptor Bill Reid (1920-1998).

Fifty Dollars

The red $50 bill features William Lyon Mackenzie King (1874-1950). He is an eccentric leader who led the country through World War II and most of the early parts of the 20th century. The opposite side of this bill displays Canada’s suffragette movement.

One Hundred Dollars

This note features Sir Robert Borden (1854-1937); he was the prime minister during World War I (1914-1918). The back commemorates Canadian cartography and exploration.

These bills are part of the Journey series produced by the mint it replaced the Bird series used in the early 90s. Canada used different series of bills throughout the decades to prevent counterfeiting, regulate and supply the country with money.

Work with Colonial Acres to learn more about collecting Canadian paper money and coins, with value information as well as rarity available.

Coins that Feature Animals

Many coins feature animals, whether it is the cute and cuddly koala or a flying eagle. Some countries choose animals because they act as symbols of their country. For collectors, adding these types of coins to their collection adds value to it.

These are just some of the popular animal coins for coin collecting enthusiasts.

U.S. Gold and Silver Eagle

The first issued bullion coins were part of the Gold Bullion Act of the late 80s. The Gold Eagle is now in several denominations and is also available in silver and platinum. Other than the eagle, this coin also features Lady Liberty.

Chinese Panda Coin

This coin is one of the world’s most famous coins since its first issue came out in 1982. You can get this bullion coin in either gold or silver in different weights. The panda coin uses a new design every year except in 2002, when the mint used the same design of the previous year.

Australian Koala Coin

Koalas are so cute and lovable that many people want to take pictures with them during their Australian escapade. Collectors can own a koala of sorts by purchasing a koala coin. These coins come in gold, platinum and silver. Their first issue came out in 1987, and these remain some of the only platinum coins issued to date. Other than featuring this cuddly animal, its obverse also displays Elizabeth II, the Queen of Australia.

French Twenty Franc Rooster

This coin has been around for a long time, in fact it is the oldest on this list. The rooster acts as the symbol of France, making it an easy choice for their mint to choose for currency. The obverse side of this coin depicts Ceres, the harvest goddess. The French government gave orders that all gold coins must be melted for use during World War I. If one is to consider the parameters for coin values, this French coin is quite valuable because of its limited release and rarity.

U.S. Buffalo Nickel

The Buffalo Nickel is one of the most popular coins in coin collecting circles. It features a Native American Indian on one side and a bison on the other. This design ran for more than two decades, from 1913 to 1938.

These are only some of the animal coins to look out for and add to your collection. Some of these are quite rare, making them valuable to any collector. Look for these coins in various specialty shops to grow your collection. Colonial Acres can assist you with all aspects of coin collecting, including searching for unique coins that feature animals to add to your collection.